Dispersed camping near Fresno, California offers primitive sites at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 5,500 feet, providing varied climate conditions throughout the year. The area features a mix of Sierra foothill and mountain terrain, with most rustic camping opportunities found within Sierra and Sequoia National Forests. Winter temperatures at higher elevations can drop below freezing, while summer brings temperatures exceeding 90°F at lower elevations.
What to do
Mountain biking opportunities: At Road to Armenian Camp dispersed area, bikers can access routes through the Sequoias. A camper noted, "One night after biking in the Sequoias," making this a good base for cycling adventures.
Wildlife viewing: Coyotes and bears actively roam the Goat Meadow Dispersed Camp Site area, requiring proper food storage. One camper shared, "Coyotes raided a bag I had hanging from a tree and stole my food!" Wildlife sightings occur most frequently at dawn and dusk.
Visit historic sites: The Chicago Stump, a remnant of a giant sequoia cut for the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, is walking distance from Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area. A visitor mentioned, "Also a quick walk to the Chicago Stump which is a must see."
What campers like
Easy access to national parks: Yosemite "Boondock National" Dispersed Camping sits just minutes from Yosemite's South Entrance. A camper confirmed it's "super accessible spot right by the entrance (10 min drive max) to Yosemite NP!!"
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the spacing between vehicles at many dispersed areas. At Goat Meadow, "We pulled in and there were a couple of trailers with horses and a couple of other vehicles and we parked with loads of space between."
Solar power opportunities: FS Road 13s09 offers a balance of shade and sun exposure. "The spot has firepits, a camping table and loads of bushes. The view is nice on the forest or a mountain top," according to one camper.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some areas require high-clearance vehicles while others accommodate standard cars. At Tumey Hills Box Canyon, "The three mile road in from I-5 is paved half way and well-graded dirt the rest."
Seasonal impacts: Snow affects high-elevation sites during winter months. At Goat Meadow, "When I was there recently, some of the 'campsites' had 0-3", whereas other spots were about 6-8"," creating variable camping conditions even within the same area.
Target shooting activity: Be aware that some BLM areas permit shooting. At Tumey Hills Box Canyon, "It is a shooting range. If you're in to target practice you'd give it a five," which may create noise during daytime hours.
Navigational challenges: Many campers report difficulty locating certain sites. Cherry Gap campers noted, "We had a problem to find this place. You have to turn onto the road 13s03 direction Chicago stump," as signage can be minimal.
Tips for camping with families
Consider noise levels: FS Road 13s09 offers quieter alternatives to busier areas. A camper reported, "the road was really calm mid-April, we had no car during the night," making it suitable for families seeking tranquility.
Plan for crowds on holidays: Holiday weekends significantly impact site availability and atmosphere. One Goat Meadow camper shared, "Beautiful area surrounded by trees so lots of shade. Came on 4th of July so the crowd is a lil rowdy but I found a spot farther away which is nice!"
Pack all essentials: No services exist at most dispersed sites. Remember drinking water, toilet paper, and trash bags. A camper at Cherry Gap advised it's "Very primitive spot but great views and free," emphasizing the need for self-sufficiency.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: For larger rigs, Sequoia Forest Hunting Area can accommodate some bigger vehicles. "Stayed here in my 22ft RV after leaving kings canyon and sequoia checking out general Sherman and some other trees," shared one RVer.
Level sites available: Look for flat parking areas to avoid leveling challenges. At Sequoia Forest Hunting Area, a camper mentioned the site is "flat, large (fits 2 big rigs at least) and has T-mobile and Verizon reception."
Road width considerations: Some access roads narrow significantly. An RVer at Road to Armenian Camp observed, "Curvy, narrow road. No great pull outs for larger vehicles," suggesting smaller RVs may have better luck at certain locations.
